Sony confirmed that PlayStation disc production will end by 2028, marking the final transition to digital-only gaming. The company is also permanently closing PS3 and Vita digital storefronts after a failed attempt five years ago sparked consumer backlash. These moves signal the end of physical media for PlayStation entirely.

Digital sales now dominate the market, with Sony reporting 85 percent of PS4 and PS5 full game purchases were digital in early 2026. Third-party publishers like Capcom saw 93 percent digital sales, projecting to reach 95.4 percent. This consumer preference drove the decision, according to Sony's Sid Shuman, who called it a natural adaptation to market trends.

The changes raise serious concerns for game preservation and consumer rights. Physical discs allow second-hand sales and long-term playability, while digital-only titles can disappear when servers shut down. Approximately 138 PS3 and Vita games exist only in digital form, making them vulnerable to permanent loss.

Sony's licensing model means players don't truly own digital games, only receiving personal licenses for non-commercial use. The PS6 will likely lack disc compatibility entirely, eliminating the used game market and giving Sony pricing control. This shift prioritizes operational efficiency over consumer ownership rights, despite industry calls for better preservation solutions.